Method and apparatus for multiple game gaming

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus for multiple game gaming in which a first game is played, a second game is played at least partially concurrently the first game, and a game element for the second game is provided when a game element for the first game is provided. The first game may be a card game, of a blackjack or poker type. The second game may be a slots, bingo or roulette game.

RELATED APPLICATION INFORMATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application, Ser. No. 60/514,901, filed Oct. 29, 2003, entitled, “Method and Apparatus for Multiple Game Gaming,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to the field of gaming, and in particular to a method and apparatus for multiple game gaming.

2. Background Art

Gambling establishments typically desire to have patrons play their games of chance as much as possible. While some players may win large or small amounts, the gambling establishment's games are arranged such that the gambling establishment is statistically likely to profit. Different games appeal to different players. For example, many players prefer the high payout possibilities of games that have a low chance of winning (e.g., slot machines). Other players prefer to have some sense of interaction with the game that influences the outcome (e.g., blackjack).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a method and apparatus for multiple game gaming. In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, a first gaming system is associated with a second gaming system. In one non-limiting embodiment, an element of the first game (e.g., a card, token, or piece) is associated with an element of the second game (e.g., a symbol, a number, or a location indicator). In one non-limiting embodiment, a player plays both the first game and the second game using the associated elements. In one non-limiting embodiment, the first or second game is a card game (e.g., blackjack, poker, etc.). In another non-limiting embodiment, the first or second game is a slot game (e.g., three-reel, four-reel, five-reel, etc.). In another non-limiting embodiment, either the first or second game is a keno game. In still another non-limiting embodiment, either the first or second game is a bingo game. In yet another non-limiting embodiment, either the first or second game is a roulette game.

In one non-limiting embodiment, a card from a card game also has a symbol used in a slot game. Thus, the player plays the card game and the slot game simultaneously. Various non-limiting example embodiments are described in an Example Embodiments section below. It should be noted that one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the specific rules and payouts in the slot and blackjack games of the example embodiments of the Example Embodiments section may be varied to generate various other non-limiting embodiments of the present invention. In one non-limiting embodiment, the slot game has four reel wins (e.g., four diamond symbols on four cards). In still another non-limiting embodiment, the slot game has five reel wins (e.g., five diamond symbols on five cards).

In another non-limiting embodiment, a player is able to play a slot game using cards dealt to the player and cards dealt to another player or the dealer. For example, the player can place a bet for a five slot game that is played with the first three cards dealt to the player and the first two cards dealt to the dealer.

In one non-limiting embodiment, the cards are physical cards and the slot symbols are placed upon the cards. In another non-limiting embodiment, the two games are computer generated. Thus, the slot symbols are electronically assigned to the cards as or before they are displayed. In one non-limiting embodiment, the slot symbols that will be displayed if the player takes a maximum number of cards are determined. In one non-limiting embodiment, the system determines an order to display the slot symbols that would entice a player to draw additional cards. For example, if two symbols of a winning sequence are present, but not the third, the two symbols are displayed with the initial two cards dealt because the player would then have an incentive to take a third card. In another non-limiting embodiment, the system determines an order to display the slot symbols that would not entice a player to draw additional cards. For example, if a winning two-symbol sequence is present in a three-symbol game, the winning two symbols will not both be displayed with the initial two cards dealt because the player would have an incentive to take the additional card for the guaranteed payoff. If the player doesn't take the additional card, the slot game doesn't pay off.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the order in which the symbols are displayed is determined by an algorithm that induces good play by the player at some times and poor play by the player at other times. The changes in the inducement algorithm are designed to prevent a player from consistently accurately predicting whether good or bad play is being induced. In one non-limiting embodiment, the inducement algorithm comprises a random element. In another non-limiting embodiment, symbols are associated with cards randomly, and the order of card play is also random.

In one non-limiting embodiment, a player plays a card game (e.g., 21, a.k.a. blackjack). In addition to the standard card value and suit information (e.g., queen of hearts), the card also has a location indicator for a bingo game (e.g., “B52”). Before a card game begins, a player may decide to participate in the additional bingo game. As the player receives cards for his blackjack hand, the player also has the opportunity to fill in locations on the bingo “card” the player is playing. In various non-limiting embodiments, the card could be a physical card, a pattern on a table at which the game is being played, an electronic representation of a bingo card, or any other means for representing when one player has won the bingo game (e.g., the game could be played electronically with no representation of progress for the player until an indicator such as a light or buzzer indicates that this player has won).

In one non-limiting embodiment, the bingo game is allowed to take place during the course of a plurality of hands of the card game until a winner is determined. In one non-limiting embodiment, players can begin playing the bingo game at any time by “buying” a bingo card. It will be obvious to one or ordinary skill in the art that the player does not necessarily actually buy the card, and to “buy” a bingo card can refer to renting the card or merely paying for the ability to use that card in playing this round of this game. “Buying” a bingo card is frequently used to refer to the act of wagering on and playing the bingo game. In one non-limiting embodiment, if a player misses a predetermined number of hands of the card game (e.g., one hand), the player forfeits the bingo game. In another non-limiting embodiment, even if all other players forfeit, a remaining player must still achieve a bingo to win. In one non-limiting embodiment, the gaming establishment (e.g., the house) keeps a portion of the wager amount. In another non-limiting embodiment, if all players forfeit, the house keeps the total amount wagered. In various non-limiting embodiments, variations on the rules of the card game and the bingo game was well as the method of betting are used.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims and accompanying drawings where:

FIG. 1 is a flow diagram of the process of multiple game gaming in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of the process of displaying game elements when a first game is a blackjack style game played with physical cards and the second game is a three-wheel slot style game played with a video display in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram of the procedure for activating an indicator in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of the process of playing a multiple game gaming system in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a player position at a table at which blackjack and slots multiple gaming is being played in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6A is a flow diagram of the process of playing a combination blackjack and bingo game from one player's perspective in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6B is a flow diagram of sub-process A of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6C is a flow diagram of sub-process B of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6D is a flow diagram of sub-process C of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of the process of playing a hold 'em poker game and a seven-slot slots game multiple game in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of the process of playing a hold 'em poker game and a seven-slot slots game multiple game in which it is unnecessary for a player to win the hold 'em poker bet in order to win the slots bet in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of the process of playing a blackjack game and a roulette game multiple game in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a general purpose computer in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention is a method and apparatus for multiple game gaming. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a more thorough description of embodiments of the invention. It is apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well known features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention. All words, terms, and phrases in the specification, drawings, and claims are intended to be interpreted as broadly as possible without causing the claims to be anticipated by or obvious in view of the prior art.

Combination of Multiple Gaming Systems

In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, a first gaming system is associated with a second gaming system. In one non-limiting embodiment, an element of the first game (e.g., a card, token, or piece) is associated with an element of the second game (e.g., a symbol, a number, or a location indicator). In various non-limiting embodiments, the element of the first game and the element of the second game may be associated without being physically combined. In various non-limiting embodiments, utilization of an element of the first game causes and/or enables utilization of an element of the second game. In another embodiment, an element of the first gaming system is physically combined with an element of the second gaming system. In one non-limiting embodiment, that a first game element is associated with a second game element means merely that the second game element is provided when the first game element is provided, though not necessarily at the exact same moment. In other non-Limiting embodiments, other types of association are made.

Game Play

In one non-limiting embodiment, a player plays both the first game and the second game using the associated elements. In one non-limiting embodiment, a player must play both games. In another non-limiting embodiment, a player is only required to play one of the games. In still another embodiment in which a player is only required to play one of the games, the player may play the second game only if the player makes an additional wager. In one non-limiting embodiment, when a player elects to only play one of the games, the game display (i.e., the tokens utilized) is the same as if the player elected to play both games. Thus, a player could see, at least partly, how the second game would have developed had the player elected to play both games. In another non-Limiting embodiment, when a player elected to only play one of the games, only the elected game's tokens are displayed.

In one non-limiting embodiment, winning the first game is a precondition to winning the second game. In another non-limiting embodiment, a player may win the second game without winning the first game.

FIG. 1 illustrates the process of multiple game gaming in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. At block 100, it is determined whether a player wishes to play a second game in addition to a first game. If the player does not wish to play a second game in addition to a first game, at block 110, the player plays the first game according to the first game's rules and the process continues at block 180. If the player wishes to play a second game in addition to a first game, at block 120, the player places an additional wager for the second game.

At block 130, the player receives an initial set of elements for the first game and an associated set of elements for the second game. At block 140, it is determined whether the player desires additional elements. If the player desires additional elements, at block 150, the player receives an additional element for the first game and an additional element for the second game, and the process repeats at block 140. It will be clear to one of ordinary skill in the art that an associated first game element and second game element can be received in any order or simultaneously in accordance with various non-limiting embodiments of the present invention. In this way, a player receives a second game element when that player receives a first game element, regardless of the actual order of delivery. If the player does not desire additional elements, at block 160, it is determined whether the player is owed a payout in accordance with the rules of the combined game system. If the player is not owed a payout, the process continues at block 180.

If the player is owed a payout, at block 170, the player is paid his or her winnings. At block 180, it is determined whether the player wishes to play again. If the player wishes to play again, the process repeats at block 100. If the player does not wish to play again, at block 190, multiple game gaming is ended for that player.

EXAMPLE GAMES

In one non-limiting embodiment, the first or second game is a card game (e.g., blackjack, poker, etc.). In another non-limiting embodiment, the first or second game is a slot game (e.g., three-reel, four-reel, five-reel, etc.). In another non-limiting embodiment, either the first or second game is a keno game. In still another non-limiting embodiment, either the first or second game is a bingo game. In yet another non-limiting embodiment, either the first or second game is a dice game (e.g., craps).

EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

In one non-limiting embodiment, a card from a card game also has a symbol used in a slot game. Thus, the player plays the card game and the slot game simultaneously. Various non-limiting example embodiments are referred to as “Slots/Blackjack” embodiments and are described below.

DESIGN OVERVIEW OF SLOTS/BLACKJACK EMBODIMENT

In a non-limiting Slots/Blackjack embodiment, players receive cards and begin playing a specific card game (Black Jack, Poker, etc.). Each of the cards dealt to the player has a chance of being associated with a symbol as well as the normal numeric and suit values. The player is given the opportunity to win their wager on the initially described card game based on the rules of that card game. The player is also given the chance to obtain a series of the aforementioned symbols and qualify for an additional “slot” payout based on a specific secondary wager. In an alternative non-limiting embodiment, the double wager system is modified to accommodate both games in one wager.

BLACKJACK RULES IN ACCORDANCE WITH ONE NON-LIMITING SLOTS/BLACKJACK EMBODIMENT

In accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, blackjack is played with one to eight ordinary decks of cards. Cards of rank 2 through 10 are scored according to their face value. All face cards are 10 points. Aces are worth either 1 or 11 points. The highest hand in blackjack is an ace and any 10-point card and is called a blackjack. A winning blackjack pays 3:2 (e.g., a $2 bet wins a $3 payout). If both player and dealer have a blackjack the bet is a push. Aside from a blackjack, a winning hand pays even money (e.g., a $2 bet wins a $2 payout). The player wins if his hand has more points than the dealer, without going over 21. If either the player or dealer goes over 21 it is called a break or bust, and the busted hand automatically loses. If both the player and dealer bust the player loses. If the player and dealer tie the bet is a push (i.e., neither the player nor the dealer loses or wins money on the hand).

SLOT PAYOUT RULES IN ACCORDANCE WITH A NON-LIMITING SLOTS/BLACKJACK EMBODIMENT

In accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, only the first three cards dealt to the player are eligible for additional symbols. Only player cards show symbols. Not obtaining a third card will result in not showing a third symbol, resulting in an automatic loss. Specific combinations of symbols garner different levels of payout dependent on rarity (e.g., three of the same symbols is a winner). Certain symbols require that only one or two be present to qualify as a winning combination. However, the player will still need to acquire a third card to validate the additional “slot” payout (e.g., two cherries on any two of the three cards is a “slots” winner, but must still have three cards to win; or one cherry on any of the three cards is a slots winner, but must still have three cards to win). Any other combination of symbols is a slots loss. Additional “slots” bets can be placed in 1 and 2 unit multiples (e.g., 0.25, 0.50; 1, 2; 5, 10) or a separate and specific amount. The max slot bet is never greater than the blackjack bet. The player must have three cards to win the additional “slots” bet. Without three cards the players loses the secondary “slots” bet. Payout of additional “slots” bet occurs immediately after the third card is dealt. Even if the player looses primary card game, example, (Blackjack) he may still win his Slots bet.

NON-LIMITING SLOTS/BLACKJACK EMBODIMENT GAME PLAY EXAMPLE

In accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, a round of Slots/Blackjack begins with the player placing a Blackjack bet and a separate Slots bet. The dealer gives the player and himself two cards. Player cards are dealt face up. One dealer card is dealt face up and the other face down.

The player has four options: Stand, Hit, Double, or Split. If the player is satisfied with his hand as-is he or she may stand. If the player only has two cards at this point he or she loses the Slots bet. The player may take another card (i.e., hit) and continue to do so until the player busts or stands. If the player feels he or she needs one and only one more card, then the player may double his or her Blackjack bet and be dealt one more card. This option is only offered on the first two cards. If the player's first two cards are of equal point value he or she may split them into two hands. In this event each card is the first card of a new hand. The player must also make another Blackjack wager of equal value to the first for the second hand. If the player splits only the player's first three cards dealt are used for determining winning of Slots bet.

In various non-limiting embodiments, Blackjack probabilities are not affected by the addition of Slots symbols to the cards. In one embodiment, the game of Blackjack is unchanged in all respects, and follows the rules described above. In one non-limiting embodiment, Slots symbols are physically separate from the cards. When a card is utilized, thus prompting the utilization of a slot symbol, a slot symbol is randomly or pseudo-randomly selected. In another non-limiting embodiment, Slot symbols are physically connected to the cards.

Determining the Symbols

In accordance with one non-limiting embodiment, three random (or pseudo-random) numbers are generated and divided by 100. The remainders, 0-99, are mapped to a symbol on each of the three reels. In an example embodiment, the three random numbers are 1749348754, 48, and 923475927. Thus, the remainders are 54, 48, and 27. The types and frequency of symbols for this embodiment are described in Table 1 below. Table 2 below illustrates the mapping of remainder value to symbol for each of the three reels for this embodiment. Thus, the symbols generated are Lemon, Orange, and Orange.

ORDERING SYMBOLS IN A NON-LIMITING SLOTS/BLACKJACK EMBODIMENT

In accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the player may not acquire the third card. Thus, it is sometimes desirable to entice the player with the first two cards. The prioritized order of placing symbols on the first two cards is as follows:

-   -   Placement order does not matter if the symbols make a three         symbol win.     -   If two symbols are the same these are placed on the first two         cards.     -   all symbols are different but one is a Cherry, the Cherry is         placed on one of the first two cards randomly.     -   If all symbols are different and there is no Cherry the symbol         placement does not matter.

In an example embodiment, when the random symbols Cherry, Plum, and Plum are generated, cards 1 and 2 are associated with a Plum symbol, and card 3 is associated with a Cherry symbol.

DETERMINING RETURNS IN A NON-LIMITING SLOTS/BLACKJACK EMBODIMENT

Utilizing the symbols weight on each reel in Table 1, each Slots payout combination is generated in Table 4. The probability for each winning combination is found by dividing the number of instances of a winning combination by the total number of combinations using Table 4. The results are generated in Table 5. Player Returns are generated in Table 6 by multiplying the Payout and Probability.

Symbol Placement

In one non-limiting embodiment, strategic placement of the “slots” symbols are used to entice the player into taking a third card, thus, lowering the likelihood of a blackjack win. In various non-limiting embodiments, enticement is made possible by having the ability to control the ordering of the elements of the second game (e.g., the “slots” symbols). In various non-limiting embodiments, the ordering of the elements of the second game are determined and displayed electronically. In one non-limiting embodiment, the elements of the first game are physical, and the elements of the second game are displayed electronically.

FIG. 2 illustrates the process of displaying game elements when a first game is a blackjack style game played with physical cards and the second game is a three-wheel slot style game played with a video display in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. At block 200, the three slot symbols available to be played in the second game are determined. At block 210, an order for display of the slot symbols is chosen such that sub-optimal play of the first game is enticed. At block 220, a first card is provided to the player and the first slot symbol in the order is displayed. In one non-limiting embodiment, each player position at a table has one or more video displays for displaying the symbols of the second game.

At block 230, a second card is provided to the player and the second slot symbol in the order is displayed. At block 240, it is determined whether the player wants an additional card. If the player does not want an additional card, at block 250, the player loses the second game, and play of the first game continues according to its rules. In various non-limiting embodiments, the third slot symbol in the order is not displayed if the player does not take a third card. In other non-limiting embodiments, the third slot symbol is displayed after the player's decision on taking a card regardless of the player's decision.

If the player wants an additional card, at block 260, a third card is provided to the player, the third slot symbol in the order is displayed, and play of both games continues in accordance with their respective rules.

Additional Enticement

In one non-limiting embodiment in which one or more currently undisplayed elements to be displayed for a second game are determined before a player has the opportunity to decide whether to take an additional element, an indicator is activated when the combination of second game elements for some player is a member of a set of special combinations. In one non-limiting embodiment, the special set of combinations is any winning combination. In another non-limiting embodiment, the set of combinations is combinations that have a payout above a certain level. In one non-limiting embodiment, the indicator is visual. In another embodiment, the indicator is a sound. In various non-limiting embodiments, the indicator may only be activated when a threshold number of players are playing.

In some non-limiting embodiments, an indication is given when an indicator may be activated. In a non-limiting example embodiment, the indicator is a light that flashes. When a sufficient number of players are playing to enable the indicator, the indicator light turns on and remains steadily on until the indicator is activated, at which time it begins to flash. When an insufficient number of players are playing, the indicator light turns off and remains off until a sufficient number of players are playing.

FIG. 3 illustrates the procedure for activating an indicator in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. At block 300, the elements that may be played for each player's second game are determined. At block 310, it is determined whether any player has a combination of possible second game elements that would be a special combination. If some player has a combination of possible second game elements that would be a special combination, at block 320, the indicator is activated. If no player has combination of possible second game elements that would be a special combination, at block 330, the indicator is not activated.

Tables TABLE 1.1 Reel Weights Symbol Reel 1 Reel 2 Reel 3 Diamond 1 1 2 Cherry 11 9 1 Plum 11 12 7 Bell 14 26 5 Orange 11 12 27 Lemon 22 19 22 Horseshoe 30 21 36 Total 100 100 100

TABLE 1.2 Reel Mapping Symbol Reel 1 Reel 2 Reel 3 Diamond 0 0  0-1 Cherry  1-10  1-9 2 Plum 11-21 10-21  3-9 Bell 22-35 22-47 10-14 Orange 36-46 48-59 15-41 Lemon 47-69 60-78 42-63 Horseshoe 70-99 79-99 64-99

TABLE 1.3 Slots Payout Symbol 1 Unit Pays 2 Units Pays 3 Diamonds 1000 Units 10000 Units 3 Cherries  100 Units  1000 Units 3 Plums  50 Units  100 Units 3 Bells  25 Units   50 Units 3 Oranges  10 Units   25 Units 3 Lemons   5 Units   10 Units Any 2 Cherries   3 Units   5 Units 3 Horseshoes   2 Units   3 Units Any 1 Cherry   1 Units   2 Units

TABLE 1.4 Winning Symbol Combinations 3 Diamonds  1 × 1 × 2 2 3 Cherries 11 × 9 × 1 99 3 Plums 11 × 12 × 7 924 3 Bells 14 × 26 × 5 1820 3 Oranges 11 × 12 × 27 3564 3 Lemons 22 × 19 × 22 9196 Any 2 Cherries 30 × 21 × 36 22680 Any 2 Cherries 11 × 9 × (100−1) + 11603 11 × (100−9) × 1 + (100−11) × 9 × 1 3 Horseshoes 11 × (100−9) × (100−1) + (100−11) × 9 × (100−1) + (100−11) × (100−9) × 1 Winning 236385 Total 100 × 100 × 100 1000000

TABLE 1.5 Probabilities Comb/ Total Comb Probability 3 Diamonds 2/  0.0002% 1000000 3 Cherries 99/  0.0099% 1000000 3 Plums 924/  0.0924% 1000000 3 Bells 1820/  0.1820% 1000000 3 Oranges 3564/  0.3564% 1000000 3 Lemons 9196/  0.9196% 1000000 Any 2 Cherries 11603/  1.1603% 1000000 3 Horseshoes 22680/  2.2680% Any 1 Cherry 186497/1000000 18.6497% Winning 236385/1000000 23.6385%

TABLE 1.6 Player Returns Table 1.6 Occurrence × Occurrence × Payout Return Payout Return 3 Diamonds 0.000002 × 1000  0.20% 0.000002 × 10000  2.00% 3 Cherries 0.000099 × 100  0.99% 0.000099 × 1000  9.90% 3 Plums 0.000924 × 50  4.62% 0.000924 × 100  9.24% 3 Bells  0.00182 × 25  4.55%  0.00182 × 50  9.10% 3 Oranges 0.003564 × 10  3.56% 0.003564 × 25  8.91% 3 Lemons 0.009196 × 5  4.60% 0.009196 × 10  9.20% Any 2 0.011603 × 3  3.48% 0.011603 × 5  5.80% Cherries 3 Horseshoes  0.02268 × 2  4.54%  0.02268 × 3  6.80% Any 1 0.186497 × 1 18.65% 0.186497 × 2 37.30% Cherry Total 45.19% 98.25%

It should be noted that one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the specific rules and payouts in the slot and blackjack games of the above non-limiting example embodiments may be varied to generate various other non-limiting embodiments of the present invention. In one non-limiting embodiment, the slot game has four reel wins (e.g., four diamond symbols on four cards). In still another non-limiting embodiment, the slot game has five reel wins (e.g., five diamond symbols on five cards).

Alternative Rules Allowing Players to Use Other's Game Elements

In another non-limiting embodiment, a player is able to play a slot game using cards dealt to the player and cards dealt to another player or the dealer. For example, the player can place a bet for a five slot game that is played with the first three cards dealt to the player and the first two cards dealt to the dealer.

FIG. 4 illustrates the process of playing a multiple game gaming system in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. At block 400, a player places a blackjack bet and a slots bet. At block 405, the player receives two cards, the dealer receives two cards, two slot symbols associated with the player's two cards are displayed to the player, one of the dealer's cards is displayed to the player, and one of the slot symbols associated with one of the dealer's cards is displayed to the player. At block 410, it is determined whether the player takes another card. If the player does not take another card, at block 415, the player loses the slots bet and the blackjack game continues in accordance with its rules. If the player takes another card, at block 420, a slots symbol associated with that card is displayed to the player.

At block 425, it is determined whether the player's blackjack point total exceeds 21 (i.e., the player busted). If the player's blackjack point total exceeds 21, at block 430, the player loses both the blackjack bet and the slots bet. If the player's blackjack point total does not exceed 21, at block 435, it is determined whether the player takes an additional card. If the player takes an additional card, the process repeats at block 425. If the player does not take an additional card, at block 440, the dealer's undisplayed card is displayed and the undisplayed slot symbol is displayed, and the dealer plays out the blackjack game in accordance with that game's rules.

At block 445, it is determined whether the player won the blackjack bet. If the player did not win the blackjack bet, at block 450, the player also loses the slots bet. In another non-limiting embodiment, it is not necessary for the player to win the blackjack bet in order to win the slots bet. If the player won the blackjack bet, at block 455, it is determined whether the player has a winning slots combination. If the player has a winning slots combination, at block 460, the player wins the slots bet. If the player does not have a winning slots combination, at block 465, the player loses the slots bet.

Various Game Element Options

In one non-limiting embodiment, the cards are physical cards and the slot symbols are placed upon the cards as part of the cards' markings. In another non-limiting embodiment, the cards are physical cards and the slot symbols are separate tokens. In another non-limiting embodiment, the two games are computer generated. Thus, the slot symbols are electronically assigned to the cards as, before, or even after they are displayed.

Determining Element Play Order

In various non-limiting embodiments, the order in which elements from one or more of the games are to be played is randomly or pseudo-randomly determined. In one non-limiting embodiment, the slot symbols that will be displayed if the player takes a maximum number of cards are determined before all but one of the symbols are displayed. In one non-limiting embodiment, the system determines an order to display the slot symbols that would entice a player to draw additional cards. For example, if two symbols of a winning sequence are present, but not the third, the two symbols are displayed with the initial two cards dealt because the player would then have an incentive to take a third card. In another non-limiting embodiment, the system determines an order to display the slot symbols that would not entice a player to draw additional cards. For example, if a winning two-symbol sequence is present in a three-symbol game, the winning two symbols will not both be displayed with the initial two cards dealt because the player would have an incentive to take the additional card for the guaranteed payoff. If the player doesn't take the additional card, the slot game doesn't pay off.

In another non-limiting embodiment, the order in which the symbols are displayed is determined by an algorithm that induces good play by the player at some times and poor play by the player at other times. The changes in the inducement algorithm are designed to prevent a player from consistently accurately predicting whether good or bad play is being induced. In one non-limiting embodiment, the inducement algorithm comprises a random element. In another non-limiting embodiment, symbols are associated with cards randomly, and the order of card play is also random.

Partial Video Display

In one non-limiting embodiment, physical cards are dealt, but slot symbols associated with the cards are displayed using a video screen. In one non-limiting embodiment, the slot symbols that are available to a player are determined before play begins, and an order is assigned. In one non-limiting embodiment, a card reader scans some or all of the cards as or before they are dealt so that the card values may be input to a game control or logging system or so that the system simply is signaled that a card is being dealt.

FIG. 5 illustrates a player position at a table at which blackjack and slots multiple gaming is being played in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. The player position 500 includes a card play area 510 in which cards for the blackjack game are placed and a video display 520. Video display 520 has virtual reel location 530, virtual reel location 540, and virtual reel location 550.

When a player has not yet received any cards, virtual reel location 530, virtual reel location 540, and virtual reel location 550 all display an animation that resembles a spinning slot reel. When a player receives a first card for the blackjack game, the slot symbol associated with that card is displayed in virtual reel location 530. When a player receives a second card for the blackjack game, the slot symbol associated with that card is displayed in virtual reel location 540. If a player receives a third card for the blackjack game, the slot symbol associated with that card is displayed in virtual reel location 550.

In various other non-limiting embodiments, the slot symbols may be displayed in alternative slot reel locations. For example, the first slot symbol may display in virtual reel location 550, the second slot symbol may display in virtual reel location 530, and the third slot symbol may display in virtual reel location 540. In various other non-limiting embodiments, the arrangement of the card playing and each individual virtual slot reel location are altered. It will be clear to one of ordinary skill in the art that any possibly physical arrangement may be used with one or more non-limiting embodiments of the present invention.

BINGO EMBODIMENTS

In one non-limiting embodiment, a player plays a card game (e.g., 21, a.k.a. blackjack). In addition to the standard card value and suit information (e.g., queen of hearts), the card also has a location indicator for a bingo game (e.g., “B52”). Before a card game begins, a player may decide to participate in the additional bingo game. As the player receives cards for his blackjack hand, the player also has the opportunity to fill in locations on the bingo “card” the player is playing. In various non-limiting embodiments, the card could be a physical card, a pattern on a table at which the game is being played, an electronic representation of a bingo card, or any other means for representing when one player has won the bingo game (e.g., the game could be played electronically with no representation of progress for the player until an indicator such as a light or buzzer indicates that this player has won).

In one non-limiting embodiment, the bingo game is allowed to take place during the course of a plurality of hands of the card game until a winner is determined. In one non-limiting embodiment, players can begin playing the bingo game at any time by “buying” a bingo card. It will be obvious to one or ordinary skill in the art that the player does not necessarily actually buy the card, and to “buy” a bingo card can refer to renting the card or merely paying for the ability to use that card in playing this round of this game. “Buying” a bingo card is frequently used to refer to the act of wagering on and playing the bingo game. In one non-limiting embodiment, if a player misses a predetermined number of hands of the card game (e.g., one hand), the player forfeits the bingo game. In another non-limiting embodiment, even if all other players forfeit, a remaining player must still achieve a bingo to win. In one non-limiting embodiment, the gaming establishment (e.g., the house) keeps a portion of the wager amount. In another non-limiting embodiment, if all players forfeit, the house keeps the total amount wagered. In various non-limiting embodiments, variations on the rules of the card game and the bingo game as well as the method of betting are used.

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D illustrate the process of playing a combination blackjack and bingo game from one player's perspective in accordance with a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that if the player (hereinafter, “Player A”) discontinues playing, both the blackjack game and bingo game may continue. At block 600, Player A places a blackjack bet. At block 602, sub-process A is performed and the process continues at block 604. At block 604, sub-process B is performed and the process continues at block 608.

At block 608, Player A receives a first card and a bingo token. At block 610, sub-process C is performed and the process continues at block 612. At block 612, sub-process A is performed and the process continues at block 614. At block 614, sub-process B is performed and the process continues at block 616.

At block 616, Player A receives a second card and a bingo token. At block 618, sub-process C is performed and the process continues at block 620. At block 620, sub-process A is performed and the process continues at block 622. At block 622, sub-process B is performed and the process continues at block 626.

At block 626, it is determined whether Player A takes another card. If Player A does not take an additional card, at block 628, sub-process A is performed and the process continues at block 630. At block 630, sub-process B is performed and the process continues at block 646.

If, at block 626, Player A takes another card, at block 632, Player A receives an additional card and bingo token. At block 634, it is determined whether Player A's card total exceeds 21 (i.e., Player A “busted”). If Player A busted, at block 636, Player A loses the blackjack bet. At block 638, sub-process A is performed and the process continues at block 640. At block 640, sub-process B is performed and the process continues at block 648.

If, at block 634, Player A does not bust, at block 642, sub-process C is performed, and the process continues at block 644. At block 644, sub-process A is performed and the process repeats at block 626.

At block 646, the payout or loss of Player A's blackjack hand is determined in accordance with the rules of that game and the process continues at block 648. At block 648, it is determined whether Player A wishes to play another blackjack hand. If Player A does not wish to play another blackjack hand, at block 650, Player A forfeits any bingo cards and the process ends. If Player A wishes to play another blackjack hand, the process continues at block 600.

Sub-process A begins at block 601. At block 601, it is determined whether any player that has an active blackjack bet wishes to purchase a bingo card. If such a player wishes to purchase a bingo card, at block 603, it is determined whether a bingo game is in progress. If a bingo game is in progress, at block 605, the player purchases a bingo card, some or all of the purchase amount is added to the bingo jackpot, and sub-process A repeats at block 601. If no bingo game is in progress, at block 607, a bingo game is initiated and sub-process A continues at block 605. In various embodiments, the house also contributes to the initial bingo jackpot. If, at block 601, no such player wishes to purchase a bingo card, at block 609, sub-process A ends.

Sub-process B begins at block 611. At block 611, it is determined in accordance with the rules of the blackjack game which player's turn it is (i.e., which player either has the option of receiving another card or is next in line to receive another card). At block 613, it is determined whether it is Player A's turn. If it is Player A's turn, at block 615, sub-process B ends. If it is not Player A's turn, at block 617, it is determined whether the player whose turn it is (i.e., the active player), is to receive a card. If the active player is not to receive a card, at block 619, sub-process A is performed, and sub-process B repeats at block 611.

If the active player is to receive a card, at block 621, the active player receives a card and a bingo token. At block 623, it is determined whether the active player's blackjack total exceeds 21 (i.e., the active player busted). If the active player busted, at block 625, the active player loses his or her blackjack bet, sub-process A is performed, and sub-process B repeats at block 611. If the active player does not bust, at block 627, it is determined whether the active player is also playing the bingo game. If the active player is not also playing the bingo game, the sub-process continues at block 619.

If the active player is playing a bingo game, at block 629, it is determined whether the active player has a winning bingo pattern. If the active player does not have a winning bingo pattern, the sub-process continues at block 619. If the active player has a winning bingo pattern, at block 631, the player wins the bingo jackpot, the bingo game ends, and the sub-process continues at block 619.

Sub-process C begins at block 633. At block 633, it is determined whether Player A is also playing the bingo game. If Player A is not also playing the bingo game, the sub-process ends at block 635. If Player A is playing a bingo game, at block 637, it is determined whether Player A has a winning bingo pattern. If Player A does not have a winning bingo pattern, the sub-process ends at block 635. If Player A has a winning bingo pattern, at block 639, Player A wins the bingo jackpot, the bingo game ends, and the sub-process ends at block 635.

Hold 'Em Poker And Slots Multiple Gaming

In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the first game is a Hold 'Em poker type game, and the second game is a slot type game. FIG. 7 illustrates the process of playing a hold 'em poker game and a seven-slot slots game multiple game in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. At block 700, a player places a poker bet and a slots bet. At block 705, the player receives two cards and two associated slots symbols, and the dealer receives two cards. At block 710, it is determined whether the player wishes to have additional cards. If the player does not wish to have additional cards, at block 715, the player folds, the player loses the poker and slots bets, and the process repeats at block 700. If the player does wish to have additional cards, at block 720, the player places an additional poker bet.

At block 725, three additional cards and associated slots symbols are revealed. At block 730, it is determined whether the player wishes to have an additional card. If the player does not wish to have an additional card, the process continues at block 715. If the player does wish to have an additional card, at block 735, the player places an additional poker bet.

At block 740, an additional card and associated slots symbol are revealed. At block 745, it is determined whether the player wishes to have an additional card. If the player does not wish to have an additional card, the process continues at block 715. If the player does wish to have an additional card, at block 750, the player places an additional poker bet.

At block 755, an additional card and associated slots symbol are revealed. At block 760, it is determined whether the player has a winning poker hand in accordance with the rules of the hold 'em poker game. If the player does not have a winning poker hand, the process continues at block 715. If the player does have a winning poker hand, at block 765, the player is paid on his poker bet in accordance with the rules of the hold 'em poker game. At block 770, it is determined whether the player has a winning slots combination. If the player has a winning slots combination, at block 775, the player is paid on his slots bet in accordance with the rules of the slots game and the process repeats at block 700. If the player does not have a winning slots combination, at block 780, the player loses the slots bet and the process repeats at block 700.

FIG. 8 illustrates the process of playing a hold 'em poker game and a seven-slot slots game multiple game in which it is unnecessary for a player to win the hold 'em poker bet in order to win the slots bet in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. At block 800, a player places a poker bet and a slots bet. At block 805, the player receives two cards and two associated slots symbols, and the dealer receives two cards. At block 810, it is determined whether the player wishes to have additional cards. If the player does not wish to have additional cards, at block 815, the player folds, the player loses the poker and slots bets, and the process repeats at block 800. If the player does wish to have additional cards, at block 820, the player places an additional poker bet.

At block 825, three additional cards and associated slots symbols are revealed. At block 830, it is determined whether the player wishes to have an additional card. If the player does not wish to have an additional card, the process continues at block 815. If the player does wish to have an additional card, at block 835, the player places an additional poker bet.

At block 840, an additional card and associated slots symbol are revealed. At block 845, it is determined whether the player wishes to have an additional card. If the player does not wish to have an additional card, the process continues at block 815. If the player does wish to have an additional card, at block 850, the player places an additional poker bet.

At block 855, an additional card and associated slots symbol are revealed. At block 860, it is determined whether the player has a winning poker hand in accordance with the rules of the hold 'em poker game. If the player does not have a winning poker hand, the process continues at block 870. If the player does have a winning poker hand, at block 865, the player is paid on his poker bet in accordance with the rules of the hold 'em poker game. At block 870, it is determined whether the player has a winning slots combination. If the player has a winning slots combination, at block 875, the player is paid on his slots bet in accordance with the rules of the slots game and the process repeats at block 800. If the player does not have a winning slots combination, at block 880, the player loses the slots bet and the process repeats at block 800.

Roulette/Blackjack

In one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, the first game is a blackjack type game, and the second game is a roulette type game. FIG. 9 illustrates the process of playing a blackjack game and a roulette game multiple game in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. At block 900, a player places a blackjack bet and a roulette bet. At block 910, the player receives two cards. At block 920, it is determined whether the player wishes to receive another card. If the player does not wish to receive another card, at block 930, the player loses the roulette bet and the blackjack game proceeds in accordance with its rules. If the player wishes to receive another card, at block 940, the player receives a card and a roulette value is generated. At block 950, it is determined whether the player has won the roulette bet. If the player has won the roulette bet, at block 960, the player is paid in accordance with the rules of the roulette game and the blackjack game proceeds in accordance with the rules of the blackjack game. If the player has lost the roulette bet, at block 970, the blackjack game proceeds in accordance with the rules of the blackjack game.

Three Game Multiple Gaming

In another non-limiting embodiment, a third game is played in addition to the first game and second game. In a non-limiting example embodiment, a player plays a card game wherein the cards are associated with slot symbols for use in playing a slot game and bingo symbols for use in playing a bingo game. In another non-limiting example embodiment, the player plays a card game, a first slot game using slot symbols associated with the cards of the card game, and a second slot game using the same slot symbols used in the first slot game. In still another non-limiting embodiment, the second slot game uses a second set of symbols associated with the cards of the card game. There is no upper limit to the number of games that can be played in some non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. Likewise, there is no upper limit to the number and type of bets that can be placed in some non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. Also, the number of bets (or possible bets) and number of games played need not be the same in various non-limiting embodiments. In one non-limiting embodiment, two or more games are played by placing one bet. In another non-limiting embodiment, more than one bet is placed within one game.

EMBODIMENT OF COMPUTER EXECUTION ENVIRONMENT (HARDWARE)

An embodiment of the invention can be implemented as computer software in the form of computer readable program code executed in a general purpose computing environment such as environment 1000 illustrated in FIG. 10. A keyboard 1010 and mouse 1011 are coupled to a system bus 1018. The keyboard and mouse are for introducing user input to the computer system and communicating that user input to central processing unit (CPU) 1013. Other suitable input devices may be used in addition to, or in place of, the mouse 1011 and keyboard 1010. I/O (input/output) unit 1019 coupled to bi-directional system bus 1018 represents such I/O elements as a printer, AN (audio/video) I/O, etc.

Computer 1001 may include a communication interface 1020 coupled to bus 1018. Communication interface 1020 provides a two-way data communication coupling via a network link 1021 to a local network 1022. For example, if communication interface 1020 is an integrated services digital network (ISDN) card or a modem, communication interface 1020 provides a data communication connection to the corresponding type of telephone line, which comprises part of network link 1021. If communication interface 1020 is a local area network (LAN) card, communication interface 1020 provides a data communication connection via network link 1021 to a compatible LAN. Wireless links are also possible. In any such implementation, communication interface 1020 sends and receives electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals which carry digital data streams representing various types of information.

Network link 1021 typically provides data communication through one or more networks to other data devices. For example, network link 1021 may provide a connection through local network 1022 to local server computer 1023 or to data equipment operated by ISP 1024. ISP 1024 in turn provides data communication services through the world wide packet data communication network now commonly referred to as the “Internet” 1025. Local network 1022 and Internet 1025 both use electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals which carry digital data streams. The signals through the various networks and the signals on network link 1021 and through communication interface 1020, which carry the digital data to and from computer 1001, are exemplary forms of carrier waves transporting the information.

Processor 1013 may reside wholly on client computer 1001 or wholly on server 1026 or processor 1013 may have its computational power distributed between computer 1001 and server 1026. Server 1026 symbolically is represented in FIG. 10 as one unit, but server 1026 can also be distributed between multiple “tiers”. In one embodiment, server 1026 comprises a middle and back tier where application logic executes in the middle tier and persistent data is obtained in the back tier. In the case where processor 1013 resides wholly on server 1026, the results of the computations performed by processor 1013 are transmitted to computer 1001 via Internet 1025, Internet Service Provider (ISP) 1024, local network 1022 and communication interface 1020. In this way, computer 1001 is able to display the results of the computation to a user in the form of output.

Computer 1001 includes a video memory 1014, main memory 1015 and mass storage 1012, all coupled to bi-directional system bus 1018 along with keyboard 1010, mouse 1011 and processor 1013. As with processor 1013, in various computing environments, main memory 1015 and mass storage 1012, can reside wholly on server 1026 or computer 1001, or they may be distributed between the two.

The mass storage 1012 may include both fixed and removable media, such as magnetic, optical or magnetic optical storage systems or any other available mass storage technology. Bus 1018 may contain, for example, thirty-two address lines for addressing video memory 1014 or main memory 1015. The system bus 1018 also includes, for example, a 32-bit data bus for transferring data between and among the components, such as processor 1013, main memory 1015, video memory 1014 and mass storage 1012. Alternatively, multiplex data/address lines may be used instead of separate data and address lines.

In one embodiment of the invention, the microprocessor is manufactured by Intel, such as the 80×86 or Pentium-type processor. However, any other suitable microprocessor or microcomputer may be utilized. Main memory 1015 is comprised of dynamic random access memory (DRAM). Video memory 1014 is a dual-ported video random access memory. One port of the video memory 1014 is coupled to video amplifier 1016. The video amplifier 1016 is used to drive the cathode ray tube (CRT) raster monitor 1017. Video amplifier 1016 is well known in the art and may be implemented by any suitable apparatus. This circuitry converts pixel data stored in video memory 1014 to a raster signal suitable for use by monitor 1017. Monitor 1017 is a type of monitor suitable for displaying graphic images.

Computer 1001 can send messages and receive data, including program code, through the network(s), network link 1021, and communication interface 1020. In the Internet example, remote server computer 1026 might transmit a requested code for an application program through Internet 1025, ISP 1024, local network 1022 and communication interface 1020. The received code may be executed by processor 1013 as it is received, and/or stored in mass storage 1012, or other non-volatile storage for later execution. In this manner, computer 1001 may obtain application code in the form of a carrier wave. Alternatively, remote server computer 1026 may execute applications using processor 1013, and utilize mass storage 1012, and/or video memory 1015. The results of the execution at server 1026 are then transmitted through Internet 1025, ISP 1024, local network 1022 and communication interface 1020. In this example, computer 1001 performs only input and output functions.

Application code may be embodied in any form of computer program product. A computer program product comprises a medium configured to store or transport computer readable code, or in which computer readable code may be embedded. Some examples of computer program products are CD-ROM disks, ROM cards, floppy disks, magnetic tapes, computer hard drives, servers on a network, and carrier waves.

The computer systems described above are for purposes of example only. An embodiment of the invention may be implemented in any type of computer system or programming or processing environment.

Thus, a method and apparatus for multiple game gaming is described in conjunction with one or more specific embodiments. The invention is defined by the following claims and their full scope and equivalents. 

1. A method for multiple game gaming comprising the steps of: playing a first game; playing a second game wherein said step of playing said second game is performed at least partially concurrently with said step of playing said first game; and providing a second game element for said second game when a first game element for said first game is provided.
 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising the steps of: betting upon said first game; and betting upon said second game.
 3. The method of claim 2 wherein said step of betting upon said first game and said step of betting upon said second game are accomplished by placing a single bet.
 4. The method of claim 1 wherein said first game is a card game.
 5. The method of claim 1 wherein said second game is a slot game.
 6. The method of claim 1 wherein said second game is a bingo game.
 7. The method of claim 1 wherein said second game is a roulette game.
 8. A multiple game gaming system comprising: a first game system; a second game system wherein said second game system is configured to be played at least partially concurrently with play of said first game system; and a game element provision device configured to provide a second game element for said second game system when a first game element for said first game system is provided.
 9. The multiple game gaming system of claim 8 further comprising: a bet placing system configured to enable betting upon said first game system, wherein said bet placing system is further configured to enable betting upon said second game system.
 10. The multiple game gaming system of claim 9 wherein said bet placing system is further configured to enable betting upon said first game system and said second game system to be accomplished by placing a single bet.
 11. The multiple game gaming system of claim 8 wherein said first game system is a card game system.
 12. The multiple game gaming system of claim 8 wherein said second game system is a slot game system.
 13. The multiple game gaming system of claim 8 wherein said second game system is a bingo game system.
 14. The multiple game gaming system of claim 8 wherein said second game system is a roulette game system.
 15. A computer program product comprising: a computer usable medium having computer readable program code embodied therein configured to control multiple game gaming, said computer program product comprising: computer readable code configured to cause a computer to provide a first game system; computer readable code configured to cause a computer to provide a second game system wherein said second game system is configured to be played at least partially concurrently with play of said first game system; and computer readable code configured to cause a computer to provide a second game element for said second game system when a first game element for said first game system is provided.
 16. The computer program product of claim 15 further comprising: computer readable code configured to cause a computer to enable betting upon said first game system; and computer readable code configured to cause a computer to enable betting upon said second game system.
 17. The computer program product of claim 16 further comprising: computer readable code configured to cause a computer to enable betting upon said first game system and said second game system to be accomplished by placing a single bet.
 18. The computer program product of claim 15 wherein said first game system is a card game system.
 19. The computer program product of claim 15 wherein said second game system is a slot game system.
 20. The computer program product of claim 15 wherein said second game system is a roulette game system. 